Newswise — If you listen to National Public Radio, watch TV, or surf the Web, chances are you have come across commercials enticing you to “improve your memory” with “brain training developed by neuroscientists.” With its 60 million users, Lumosity is the largest of these so-called brain gyms. Peer-reviewed evidence supporting the claim that stretching your mind with brain games translates into tangible benefits in other realms of life remains slim. While researchers are studying brain training, some are taking advantage of the data behemoth generated as millions of gamers are tracked online. Scientists are mining databases for clues that people might be sliding toward dementia and becoming candidates for therapeutic prevention trials. Read Alzforum’s two-part story that explores the data behind brain training (Part I), and the creative ways researchers hope to put the games to use (Part II).
About Alzforum:
Founded in 1996, the Alzforum is a dynamic, Web-based scientific community dedicated to understanding Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. Access to the website is free to all. Our editorial priorities are as diverse as the needs of the research community. The website reports on the latest scientific findings, from basic research to clinical trials; creates and maintains public databases of essential research data and reagents; and produces discussion forums to promote debate, speed the dissemination of new ideas, and break down barriers across the numerous disciplines that can contribute to the global effort to cure Alzheimer's disease. The Alzforum team of professional science writers and editors, information technology experts, Web developers, and producers all work closely with our distinguished Advisory Board to ensure a high quality of information and services. We very much welcome our readers' participation in all aspects of the website.
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